The Wedding Party

The Wedding Party, directed by the trio of Brian De Palma, Wilford Leach, and Cynthia Munroe, is an intriguing American comedy film that first premiered in 1969. The film showcases a diverse ensemble cast, including the nascent acting talents of Robert De Niro in his first film role, and an equally masterful performance from the renowned choreographer and actress, Valda Setterfield, alongside Raymond McNally and John Braswell.

Set against the backdrop of a flamboyantly orchestrated elite wedding, the film delves into the dynamics of relationships, societal norms, and the comedic challenges involved in this significant lifecycle event. The film largely unpacks its story through the perspectives of the wedding party participants, which gives the audience an insight into the characters' foibles and eccentricities.

The Wedding Party's central plot follows Charlie, a close friend of the groom, played by De Niro. Charlie's story forms the narrative crux, creating an intimate character study amid the wedding chaos. De Niro excellently crafts Charlie's character as intellectually curious, if slightly bewildered, navigating the rarified world of the elite wedding party, with a performance that teases the significant talent he would later bring to bear in iconic roles.

Valda Setterfield lights up the screen with her portrayal of the high-society mother of the groom, offering a subtly nuanced yet hilarious depiction. Setterfield's character commands the pace of the unfolding comic drama, controlling the speeding train of matrimonial mayhem. She masterfully embodies the perspective of a mother stressed about ensuring every detail of her son's wedding is perfect.

Raymond McNally and John Braswell contribute humorously frantic performances as wedding party members trying to steer their way through the organized chaos that surrounds the nuptials. Their performances add to the sea of exuberant characters that intersect and interact in unexpected ways throughout the film, highlighting the intricate dance that is a high-society wedding.

The film embraces a tastefully satirical tone, poking fun at the loftiness of upper-class society and the sometimes absurd constraints of its customs and traditions. The directors, De Palma, Leach, and Munroe, skillfully balance their biting satire with moments of heartfelt emotion and connection to strike a perfect balance of humor and drama.

The cinematography is noteworthy, with the directors cooperatively infusing an experimental vibe into the film's visual style, an attribute that was innovative for its time. The shifting narrative perspectives are masterfully visualized, with quick cuts and close-ups that take the audience on a roller-coaster ride through the wedding preparation and ceremony.

The Wedding Party also features resourcefully constructed comic moments. Laughs are scattered through insightful commentary on the wedding culture, societal expectations, and intimate observations on human behavior under stress. At times, the humor comes across as situational, while in other moments, it's incisively planned, adding a rich layer to the cinematic experience.

The Wedding Party is a promising early film in De Palma's career, predicting his ability to craft comedy and suspense alike. Although the film can be characterized as a departure from the intense thrillers that would later come to define De Palma's career, it holds its own unique place as a remarkable force in its genre. The film exudes charm and humor that should appeal to audiences who enjoy a well-layered comedy.

In conclusion, The Wedding Party is a captivating comedy that examines the peculiarities of matrimony in a tautly humorous narrative with an undertone of soft criticism. With outstanding performances, particularly from the young De Niro and the magnetic Setterfield, the film establishes itself as more than a comedic parody of high society, and as a comical yet poignant exploration of human relationships. Whether you are a fan of early De Palma or simply appreciate intelligent humor, The Wedding Party offers a delightful and thought-provoking viewing.